Not All Property Inspections Are the Same: What to Expect

When it comes to property inspections, not all inspections are created equal. Every inspection

follows a Standards of Practice (SOP), which serves as the foundation for thorough and professional evaluations. For residential inspections, see InterNACHI’s SOP, and for commercial inspections, review CCPIA’s SOP. These standards are the minimum requirements, but they create critical stop points and guide inspectors in assessing structures, systems, and safety.

It’s important to understand that home inspectors are observers, not experts. My years of experience in construction, commercial property management, and insurance auditing do not make me an expert — but they do make me a better observer. This experience allows me to notice details that may otherwise go overlooked, helping clients make informed property decisions.

For example, inspectors are not always required to walk on roofs; ground-level assessments are standard. At 1st Edge Inspections, we use drones for residential roofs when appropriate

and walk commercial roofs whenever safely possible, providing a thorough and accurate visual inspection.

Before choosing an inspector based on price alone, it’s crucial to consider these value propositions. An inspection that goes beyond the minimum SOP, uses advanced tools when needed, and brings real-world experience to the table ensures you’re not just getting a report — you’re getting confidence in your property decisions.

For more information, visit InterNACHI’s Consumer Resource Page or watch this video on what a home inspection covers to understand what to expect.

Ready to get started? Request an Inspection Quote today and get the edge on your next property decision.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational purposes only. 1st Edge Inspections provides professional inspections in accordance with InterNACHI and CCPIA Standards of Practice. Inspectors are generalists and observers, not experts. Observations made during an inspection are based on visible conditions at the time of the inspection, and clients should consult appropriate specialists for further evaluation.